Three Anti-Obesity Drugs Compared
A short review comparing three current drugs - orlistat, sibutramine, and rimonabant.
- Rimonabant is suitable for people with the lipid features of metabolic syndrome (low HDL-cholesterol, high triglycerides), and those wishing to stop smoking. It must be avoided in people with depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions.
- Use orlistat for patients at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, because of its potential to reduce LDL-cholesterol and slightly reduce blood pressure. Avoid it in people with chronic diarrhea.
- Sibutramine may be best for patients with a frequent snacking problem. It should be avoided in people with poorly controlled high blood pressure or cardiovascular problems.
